1 Fully conscious of the intervening Judah narrative, the text resumes the account of Joseph, taking up where chapter 37 left off. As in 37:27, those who have brought Joseph into Egypt are called “Ishmaelites,” while in 37:28, 36, they are known as “Midianites.” 2–6 Verse 2 establishes the overall theme of the narrative: “The LORD was with Joseph and he prospered.” Verses 3–6 relate the theme to the specific series of events to follow: Joseph’s blessing from the Lord is recognized by his Egyptian